As I am writing this blog, I am grappling with mixed emotions regarding the topic. Climate anxiety is not just a climate concern but it is a compound feeling that affects daily life. It overwhelms me when I think about the future and what future generations will have to face because of the consequences of human activities.
Climate anxiety started to become a problem when I started to learn more about climate change issues and the results of it around the globe. It was a slow awakening to the harsh realities of climate change. While understanding the issues, the reasons and the consequences of human intervention on climate change, climate anxiety kept becoming severe. It felt like the clock was ticking by and I could do nothing to control climate change and its impact. One of the challenging aspects of climate anxiety is the feeling of helplessness and hopelessness towards the whole global scenario. How can I, as an individual, even make a difference? Can awareness really help with climate change or should I believe ‘Ignorance is bliss’? Climate anxiety is not just about the environment but its effect on human well being. The constant headlines, alarming stories with images going around in the head led to lots of sleepless nights and growing a sense of despair everyday. It’s like watching a show full of chaos but you cannot hit a pause button to stop it.
I thought sharing about my climate anxiety and stress would burden everyone around, therefore I kept it within myself for a while. But acknowledging and accepting the anxiety and the facts of climate change was the first step to calm the emotional waves. It was about accepting the valid feeling instead of ignoring it. Conversations about anxiety and fears with like minded people, helped share burden with each other and it also felt a bit lighter after the open conversations. After accepting the emotions, I realized that it was not the time to be hopeless and emotional but take actions because there is still hope. I tried to channel the negative emotion or the energy towards actions instead of sitting back hopeless. I started small initiatives like making eco conscious choices, reducing carbon footprint and participating in local initiatives against climate change. The shift from passive worrier to active contributor brought a new purpose to life.
Engaging with like minded people who were navigating through climate anxiety and collectively taking actions, brought a glimpse of hope. Together with the community, we planted trees, collected wastes, organized awareness campaigns and advocated for sustainable practices. The strength of a community dedicated to positive change is a powerful antidote to climate anxiety. My journey with climate anxiety is ongoing. There are still moments when the weight of the world feels almost unbearable. However, in those moments, I remind myself that I am not alone. Together, as a global community, we can turn the tide. Climate anxiety is not just a personal struggle; it's a collective call to action. As I reflect on my journey, I find solace in knowing that each small step taken, each voice raised in concern, contributes to a larger movement. The storm within may not fully subside, but perhaps, in our collective efforts, we can help calm the raging seas and build a more sustainable future.